Blind was crucial for Ajax in 2013-14 as the club lifted the Eredivisie and subsequently starred for his national team as they reached the semi-finals in Brazil, even scoring as they defeated hosts Brazil 3-0 in the third-place play-off.

New Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal - who guided Netherlands to the last four before linking up with the Premier League club - had been reported to be keen on bringing Blind to Old Trafford, but in recent weeks Barca have emerged as a possible destination for the 24-year-old.

Ajax coach Frank de Boer has publicly pleaded with the defender to stay at the Eredivisie champions for another season, but the player's representative hinted that interest in Blind might be too great for the Dutch giants to ignore.

"At the moment there is nothing concrete," Rob Jansen replied to Voetbal International when asked specifically about Barca rumours. "But the rumours of today could very well be tomorrow's reality.

"There are many clubs interested in Daley. We'll have to wait and see what happens when the transfer market shakes up."

Blind's contract with Ajax - whom he has been with since joining as a youngster in 1998 - runs until 2016.